Vladimir Putin has said war between Russia and Ukraine is "unlikely".

The Russian president was being interviewed on state television when he was asked if he expected a war between the two countries.

In a reply that was published on the Kremlin's website, he said: "I think that such an apocalyptic scenario is unlikely and I hope this will never happen."

Mr Putin also said he did not see the need for another meeting with France, Germany and Ukraine on peace in the region and that he hoped the accords agreed to in Minsk would be respected.

He added that the four countries trust each other "on the whole".

Mr Putin's words came after Ukraine had halted the withdrawal of heavy weapons from the frontline, blaming continuing attacks from pro-Russian rebels.

Kiev had said it was preparing to pull back in line with the ceasefire agreed on February 12th.

The truce requires both sides to withdraw heavy artillery to between 25 and 70kms.

However, Ukraine claims there have been attacks against its forces and is now refusing to budge.

Lieutenant Colonel Anatoliy Stelmakh said the retreat would not proceed until rebel attacks stop entirely - something that was supposed to occur from February 15th.